Hand Dryer and Display

ABSTRACT

The invention provides a plurality of display devices such as hand dryers, each with a programmed computer display, and all communicating to a central location via a high speed link system. A display screen is mounted to each of the hand dryers and viewable by a user while drying the user&#39;s hands. A processor is located within the housing and is in signal-communication with the display screen. The high-speed link system is in signal-communication with each processor and an external data source, wherein the data source communicates with the processor to change the image displayed on the display screen. Sensors communicate ambient conditions outside of the display screen to a database.

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.62/110,326, filed Jan. 30, 2015; and U.S. Provisional Application No.62/278,909, filed Jan. 14, 2016.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention pertains to hand dryers that include a digital displayscreen for conveying information, such as advertising. The inventionalso pertains to interactive display devices. The invention alsopertains to a sensor system for collecting environmental and human datafor analysis.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Hand dryers which include display screens for displaying information areknown. One such hand dryer includes an integrated modem thatautomatically updates the stored images every 24 hours. Up to 20 imagesare stored and displayed in sequence.

The present inventors have recognized that it would be desirable toprovide a display screen for a hand dryer that was nearly instantlyresponsive to a centralized control to display news, information, imagesand advertising. The present inventors have recognized that it would bedesirable to provide a display screen for a hand dryer that was easilyupdated and reconfigured from a remote location.

The present inventors have recognized that it would be desirable toprovide a display screen for a hand dryer that included additionalfunctional and interactive features.

The present inventors have recognized that it would be desirable toprovide an electronic system for hand dryers or other devices thatincluded an interactive display screen and sensors for collectingenvironmental and human data for analysis. The present inventors haverecognized that it would be desirable to use this data for advertisingand marketing to consumers.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention provides an interactive screens for hand dryers, orbillboards or other informational stations that would be usefulthroughout airports, shopping malls, sporting arenas, museums, hotellobbies, outdoor areas, coffee shops, etc.

The invention provides a sensor module or board that is useful tocollect environmental and human data for analysis.

One aspect of the invention provides a plurality of hand dryers, eachwith a programmed computer display, and all communicating to a centrallocation via a high speed link system.

The invention provides a hand dryer with a display screen and aproximity sensor that senses the proximate location of a user to thescreen. A processor within the hand dryer may calculate, store, record,monitor and/or analyze data corresponding to the presence of the user,the number of such users per unit of time, the time durations ofproximate users, etc. This data may be retrieved locally or centrallyand may be used for marketing and advertising analysis.

The invention provides an audio sensor that may be used to calculate,store, record, monitor and/or analyze data corresponding to the actualuse of the hand drying function (use of the drying fan). The audiosensor may be used to modify the display or audio associated with thedisplay. For example, the audio volume of the loudspeaker may be raisedwhen the drying fan is operated. For example, the display screen coulddisplay “Good Bye” when the drying fan is timed out.

Throughout this application an exemplary embodiment is illustrated anddescribed in the form of a hand dryer. It is to be understood that thedisplay screen, the interactive controls, the sensors and relatedelectronics could alternately be mounted into another type appliance, aninformation station, or another location that is exposed to people.

According to one embodiment, a hand dryer includes a housing, a fan, aheater, a display screen, a primary processor and a secondary processordirectly interfaced with the primary processor. The fan is locatedwithin a housing. The heater is also located within the housing. The fandraws air past the heater to heat the air and to dispense the air fromwithin the housing externally of the housing to dry a user's hands. Thedisplay screen is mounted to the housing and viewable by a user whiledrying the user's hands. The processor is located within the housing andis in signal-communication with the display screen.

A high-speed link is in signal-communication with the processor and anexternal data source, wherein the data source communicates with theprocessor to change the image, video, text or other data displayed onthe display screen.

The high-speed link may comprise a wireless receiver. The high-speedlink may comprise a subscriber line. The hand dryer may comprise a USBdrive, a hard disc drive or a compact flash memory or like device forlocal memory and operational storage.

The preferred system of the invention may comprise a central datasource, and a plurality of powered hand dryers. Each of the hand dryersincludes a display screen mounted to a front thereof and viewable by auser while drying the user's hands. Each of the hand dryers includes adisplay processor located therein and in signal-communication with thedisplay screen. Each of the hand dryers includes a high-speed link insignal-communication with the display processor and the central datasource.

The high speed links may comprise wireless receivers and the centraldata source comprises a wireless transmitter to communicate with each ofthe wireless receivers.

The high speed links may comprise subscriber lines and the central datasource may communicate through the subscriber lines to the hand dryers.

The high-speed links may comprise Ethernet cables, and the central datasource communicates through the Ethernet cables to the hand dryers.

The system may comprise a local processor and a LAN insignal-communication between the local processor and the plurality ofdisplay processors, the local processor in signal-communication with thecentral data source. The LAN may comprise an Ethernet system. The LANmay comprise a wireless system.

An exemplary method of the invention for entering, storing anddisplaying media information, comprises the steps of: entering andstoring media information into an information management application,wherein media information is stored according to advertising time blocksfor each display application; providing a plurality of informationdisplay applications, each located in a different location; providing aninformation instruction server application for communicating informationfrom the information management application to the information displayapplications; and, using the information management application,determining an open time block in a particular information displayapplication and entering a media information data associated with thetime block for display at the information display application.

The information display application may comprise the step of using a LANto communicate to a plurality of information display screens at a site.

The method may include the further step of using the information displayapplications, communicating operational status to the informationmanagement application through the information instruction server.

According to the invention, an Ethernet programmability feature allowsinternet downloading of advertising or employee training informationthrough cable, telephone, wireless or satellite connection.

The processor within a hand dryer may have its stored informationupdated at any time. The processor may e-mail its operating status to acentral office. A plurality of display screens may be used in a griddisplay. One processor in a hand dryer may be specified as a master unitfor any number of slave processors.

The hand dryer is preferably activated by a reflected infrared sensor. Apolycarbonate lens, protected with frequency match tinting, filters outambient light. The circuitry preferably has self adjusting timeout andfail safe off protection. The circuitry is microprocessor controlled todetect and reject false signals and the circuitry shall self calibrateto provide uniform sensitivity. The dryer preferably has dualcentrifugal blower wheels driven by 0.25 horsepower, dual shaft, seriesmotor, operating at 7500 RPM. Preferably, the dual blowers deliver about183 CFM. Dual, nickel-chromium heating elements may be provided thateach delivers 1000 W to provide a 73 F degree rise over the ambienttemperature. Both heating elements and blower motor may be protectedwith automatic resetting thermostats.

The voltage regulation of the computer display is provided by the handdryer voltage regulation circuitry (100-277 VAC, 50/60 Hz) thusprecluding the need to provide different models for different operatingvoltages. One unit will be voltage compliant for the entire worldmarket. It would take individual units of 100, 120/127, 208, 220, 240and 277 to cover this voltage range if the automatic voltage regulationcircuitry was not utilized.

The hand dryer of the present invention may provide a WiFi captiveportal. The hand dryer may provide a WiFi hotspot for the location thatbroadcasts internet for patrons. It could be configured that patronsmust first complete a short form before gaining access to the Wifi. Theinformation collected from the patron may be used for marketing or otherpurposes.

The hand dryer may provide BLUETOOTH Low Energy (“BLE”) Broadcast. APPLEhas branded this functionality iBeacon. It is the broadcasting of acertain Universally Unique Identifier (“UUID”) over BLE and utilizing anative application on iOS, ANDROID, or WINDOWS phone to recognize thatbroadcasted UUID and recognize the location of the user. Thisinformation can be data mined or used for marketing purposes inreal-time or otherwise.

The hand dryer may use a proximity sensor to have information such asadvertising displayed on the screen that monitors, analyzes, recordsand/or reacts directly to user's proximity, gestures or movement. Thehand dryer may provide an audio sensor to dynamically augment theinformation based on the use of the hand dryer or other audio processed.

The hand dryer may display social media content on-screen in real-timeby scraping for hashtags. For example, someone posts a photo toINSTAGRAM with hashtag #unitedcenter and it may be displayed on the handdryers within the venue, i.e., on hand dryers at Chicago's UnitedCenter.

According to a further enhancement of the invention, the hand dryer caninclude a plurality of sensors signal-connected to a sensor board ormodule that receives sensor signals and processes the signals in waysuseful to a variety of users. For example, a barometric air pressuresensor can be used to determine an accurate count of people in a room,changes in the weather, toilet usage by determining flushes, etc. An airquality sensor can sense the presence of unwanted gases or odors in theroom to trigger an air freshening operation or alert a maintenanceperson. A proximity sensor can be used to determine the number of peoplewalking by the hand dryer or standing in front of the hand dryer. A highfrequency sensor can be used to determine hand dryer usage and motor/fancondition. A near field communication sensor can be used to transferdata to/from the hand dryer device and a user's smart phone of othercomputer device. A distance and gesture sensor can be used to forinteractive communication between a user and the hand dryer device. Auser's hand gestures can be used to communicate to the hand dryerdevice. An eye tracking sensor can be used to determine the attention ofthe observer to the screen or to any particular advertisement or messageappearing on the screen. The amount of time an observer's eye isdirected to the advertisement or message can be calculated, and summed,averaged or otherwise analyzed for multiple observers. An automaticidentification and data capture sensor can be used to identify objectsand enter data directly into the database of the hand dryer device. Anoccupancy sensor can be used to control room lighting. A power sensorcan be used to diagnose the condition of the fan motor.

A further aspect of the invention provides that devices can be signalconnected to the hand dryer and can be controlled by the hand dryer torelease pre-determined fragrances. The release can be controlled forwhen the air quality is unsatisfactory or can be controlled to release afragrance that serves an advertising function. For example, anadvertisement for a laundry detergent could trigger the release of afragrance of that laundry detergent, or an advertisement for an certainrestaurant could trigger the release of food fragrances associated withthat restaurant.

The invention can provide multi-screen ad campaigns, real-time display,real-time restroom monitoring, 15.16 HD display, add network softwaredevelopment kit (“SDK”), iBeacon (BLE), behavioral data, NFC/RFID, Amberalert, WiFi hot-spot, air-quality monitoring, NOVA 2 automatic warm air

The software can distribute usage data, environment data, and monitoringdata to certain companies. Air quality data can be monitored to outsidehealth awareness companies to help monitor public air quality.

Advertisers would be able to see hour by hour how many users are exposedto advertising from a new campaign.

Publishers would have access to this information and more data uponrequest and subscription.

Because the hand dryer is constantly analyzing data from itssurroundings, the advertising has the ability to change on a minute byminute basis as it adapts to its new surroundings. As people come andgo, the information changes which makes the advertising more efficientand catered to its audience.

Because the screen has multiple layouts this could be used to display upto 20 Messages within 20 seconds or could be used to display one messagethroughout the whole screen.

Another possible use of the invention is that by providing sensorsthroughout multiple locations, mass data, mega-data or aggregate datacan be calculated, summed averaged throughout an airport, city, state ofcountry. For example, the air pressure sensors could be useful inweather prediction, other sensors such as the Bluetooth or RFID sensorscould be useful to analyze trends in the movement of people.

Numerous other advantages and features of the present invention will bebecome readily apparent from the following detailed description of theinvention and the embodiments thereof, and from the accompanyingdrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front view of a hand dryer according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 is an exploded front perspective view of the hand dryer shown inFIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an exploded rear perspective view of the hand dryer shown inFIG. 1, with a back cover removed;

FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a system for controlling multiple handdryer screens;

FIG. 5 is a method step algorithm demonstrating the operation of thehand dryer shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram of the hand dryer according to thepresent invention;

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an enhanced embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 8 is a display screen of a graphical user interface useful inmonitoring use of the hand dryer and display screen of the invention;

FIG. 9 is an elevation view of an alternate cabinet and sensorarrangement to that shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a further alternate cabinet and sensor arrangement to thatshown in FIG. 1; and

FIG. 11 is a display screen of an alternate graphical user interfaceuseful in monitoring use of the hand dryer and display screen of theinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in many differentforms, there are shown in the drawings, and will be described herein indetail, specific embodiments thereof with the understanding that thepresent disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of theprinciples of the invention and is not intended to limit the inventionto the specific embodiments illustrated.

US Published Application 2008/0004963 is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety to the extent that it is not contrary to thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 1 illustrates a hand dryer 10 that incorporates the presentinvention. The hand dryer includes a housing 16 having a front wall 18connected to a top wall 28, a bottom wall 32, and left and right sidewalls 40, 42. An access panel 43 is provided to close a maintenanceopening 44. Beneath the panel 43 are USB inputs 38, 39 for maintenanceand data input/output functions.

A dryer component 45 is included within the housing for providing a warmair discharge through openings 46 through the bottom wall.

A display screen 50 is provided within an opening 52 through the frontwall 18. The display screen is a digital display screen preferablyhaving a 15 inch diagonal dimension with a 16:9 aspect ratio andresolution of 1366×766. One or more small loudspeakers (not shown) maybe provided with the display screen or as separate elements.

As shown in FIG. 1, the hand dryer 10 includes an antenna 180 fortransmitting and receiving wireless information. The antenna is flushmounted to the front wall 18 and adjacent to the screen 50.

A faceplate 182 is mounted onto the front wall 18 and may be used toidentify the hand dryer, or for displaying a trademark or advertising. Aproximity sensor 142 and an LED 146 may be mounted to the front wall 18.The sensor 142 and the LED 146 are exposed for operation throughopenings in the front wall 18. An audio sensor 144 is shown mountedbehind the front wall 18.

FIG. 2 shows a back plate 64 that substantially closes the housing andprovides apertures 65 for mounting the housing to a wall. The dryercomponent 45 is mounted to the back plate 64.

According to one exemplary embodiment, the dryer component 45 is an ASIbrand surface mounted sensor hand dryer, Model 0180, available fromAmerican Specialties, Inc. of Yonkers, N.Y., USA. U.S. Pat. Nos.4,914,833; 5,031,337; 6,050,000; and 5,146,695 disclose constructions ofwall mounted hand dryers, herein incorporated by reference. The dryercomponent includes an IR sensor 152 that activates the dryer when auser's hands are placed close to the sensor 152. The dryer is turned offwhen the hands are removed from proximity to the sensor, or turned offby a timer. The motor and heating elements have internal, resettingautomatic thermostat protection. The dryer component may operate at 183CFM of heated air to provide a drying time of less than 30 seconds forthe user's hands. The circuitry shall have self-adjusting time-out andfail-safe off protection controlled by microprocessor to detect andreject false signals. The circuitry will automatically self-calibrate toprovide uniform sensitivity over its entire life span. The infraredsensor 152 shall be protected by a heavy-duty polycarbonate lensfrequency match-tinted to filter out ambient light. The unit isinternally electrically grounded. The display screen is preferablycovered by quarter inch safety glass to protect the screen from impactor touching.

FIG. 3 shows a rear view of the housing including the USB inputs 38, 39and the screen 50 with associated components. FIG. 3 shows the locationof a primary processor 126 and a secondary processor 127.

FIGS. 2 and 3 show an alternate, upper location of the proximity sensor142 than shown in FIG. 1.

The invention provides a method of entering, storing, and displayingimage and media information as illustrated in FIG. 4. The system'spublic interface will display images and other media content on acomputer based device. The system is comprised of three individualsystems or applications:

-   -   1) Information Management Application (IMA)    -   2) Information Display Applications (IDA)    -   3) Information Instruction and Media Server (IIM—Web        application)

The IMA is a user interface or application and corresponding database.The IMA may be used to enter and store information about the site andlocation of the particular IDA, and specific to the IDA, instructions,images, and other forms of media. The images and media may be stored ineither the database or in a file based system with the database storingthe reference information to that media. The IMA has the ability tocommunicate with the IIM server or database either via a LAN or throughthe Internet. The IMA will also have the ability to store marketinginformation related to the location and site of the IDA machines. Theapplication or software may optionally query the IIM to determine whichIDAs have available “slots” or “blocks” based on the stored marketinginformation for quoting and reporting purposes.

The IDA is a device to display images, information, and other mediacontent based on the instructions provided by the IIM. The IDA mayconnect to the Internet directly via a link 156 (cable, wireless, orother type) or other type of network, such as a local area network (LAN)160, or via a master/slave link 166 between IDA's for the purpose ofreceiving instructions from the IIM. The IDA application may provideauthentication information to the IIM. Once the IDA is verified, it mayrequest instruction from the IIM service. Based on these instructions,the IDA may download the relevant images and media. The instructionsshall include image or media information and duration. This willdetermine how the images will display and function. The IIM service mayalso provide instructions concerning updates, change in schedule, andother information as deemed necessary for the IDA to function. The IDAmay also provide information to the IIM concerning logging or possiblefailures.

The IIM is an application that is capable of connecting to the samedatabase of information and media content, which the IMA has provided.Based on this information, the IIM will determine and create instructionfor the many IDA's as they connect to the IIM service. The individualIDA machine will access the IIM through the Internet. The IDA will sendan HTTP request or other unspecified type of request to the IIM webapplication. The web application will verify the validity of the requestby matching up the authentication information along with the IDA I.P.and MAC Address against the information stored in the database. Oncethis is verified, the web application will query the database anddetermine the instructions (as described above) for that particulardisplay unit. The IDA may pass other logging and diagnostic informationwhich the IIM will interpret and store as needed.

A particularly useful process is set forth below.

-   -   A) The IDA sends a web request to the IIA, the IIM authenticates        and logs the requesting display (IDA). Then the IIM queries the        database schedule and responds with a list of images the IDA        shall download from the FTP server.    -   B) The IDA sends a request in a pre-defined interval. The IIM        may be configured to log this activity for every IDA. Reports or        alerts could be generated for displays that do not send a        request, or several consecutive requests, as they are        programmed.    -   C) The software on the IDA may be configured to delete old        images if they are unused and have an older file date, for        example, the IDA could delete images older than 1 month old.    -   D) The IDA may be configured to send a request to the IIM        reporting its internal software version number. If the IIM        determines there is a newer version of the IDA software, it may        be configured to respond with the new file name of the IDA        software. The IDA downloads that update and executes it, which        starts the new version of the IDA software. Once the new version        is started, the old version is stopped.    -   E) Referring to part “B”, the process may poll or query via an        external process or within the IMA software for inactive units        that are declared as in production.    -   F) The IDA stores ad view and dryer usage data collected by the        proximity sensor and audio sensor interfaced with the SBC        microcomputer. This data is transmitted regularly to the IIM for        storage.

Referring to “E”, “External Process” refers to a separate program orsoftware that runs all the time that constantly checks or polls thedatabase. If this process finds a problem, it could Email a manager tonotify of the situation. “In production” refers to machines that arestated to be “in use”, or not a unit sitting in storage. This may bemore effective than the IMA pointing out a problem, since it could onlyreport a problem when someone is actually using the program.

FIG. 5 illustrates a software and system configuration for accomplishingsystem control of the hand dryers.

The client may run LUBUNTU, a light version of the open source LINUXoperating system UBUNTU. The client may use CRONTAB to regularly checkfor software changes and content updates when an internet connection ispresent by making GET requests to a RESTful web service existing at theserver layer from a combination of BASH and PHP scripts cronned locally.The content may display in an HTML5, CSS3 full-screen display powered byopen source GOOGLE CHROME software. The client may display a series ofimage and video ad content maintained at the server layer in addition tocontent from various other sources such as sports scores, weather info,stock quotes, flight information, breaking news, instagram images,twitter posts, etc. Audio corresponding to the displays may be provided.

In the Server Layer (Content Management and RESTful services), a clusterof load balanced CENTOS web servers may sit in front of master to masterreplicated MySQL database servers to provide a REST layer for interfacewith both the server side content management system and the clientlayer. The content management system may consist of a Single PageJavaScript Application allowing the end-user(s) to manage their contentdisplayed at the client layer as well as toggle which modules of dynamiccontent may be displayed. This SPA may interface with the same RESTfullayer of services as the client layer.

FIG. 6 illustrates the components of a hand dryer 10. The primaryprocessor 126 includes flash memory or other type memory. The processor126 includes an input/output 144 compatible with WiFi or Ethernet over ahigh-speed Internet connection 148 to a server. A USB HD 149 may beremovably signal-connected to the USB hub with ports 38, 39 that aresignal-connected to the primary processor 126. The USB HD may be a microUSB storage device, i.e., a flash memory device. A flash card reader mayalso be provided beneath the panel 43 adjacent to the USB ports.

The secondary processor 127 is signal-connected to the proximity sensor142, the audio sensor 144 and the LED 146. The secondary processor 127is signal-connected by USB to the primary processor 126. The secondaryprocessor conditions and communicates signals from the proximity sensor,the audio sensor, or other sensors to the primary processor 126.

The primary processor 126 has an output signal-connected to a displayadaptor 147 that controls and conditions signals to the display 50. Theprimary processor 126 may include circuitry for providing audio signalsto one or more loudspeakers (not shown). Alternately, the circuitry andloudspeakers could be provided integrated with the display screen 50.The loudspeakers provide audio that may correspond to the image on thedisplay, i.e., the ability to play videos or other visual displays withsound.

The proximity sensor 142 may be an infrared sensor, an optical sensor ora sonic sensor, or other type sensor as known in the art. The proximitysensor sends a signal to the secondary processor 127 that a user is inproximity to the screen 50 and may also sense movement of the user.

The screen 50 is powered by the DC power supply 120. Domestic power 103is connected to a terminal block 102 which directs power to the DC powersupply 120 and to the dryer component 45. The screen 50 is configured tosupport an on screen display keypad 170. The primary processor 126includes a wireless circuit board that is signal-connected to theantenna 180 that is mounted to the cabinet adjacent to the screen.

The USB ports 38, 39 allow the dryer 10 to be programmed and/or toreceive data files by a local technician even if no remote communicationis available to the dryer 10. The technician may use the USB HD 149 toinput or output data or programming to/from the processor 126.

The hand dryer of the present invention may provide a WiFi captiveportal. The hand dryer provides a WiFi hotspot for the location tobroadcast internet service for patrons that must first complete a shortform before gaining access. The information collected from the patronmay be used for marketing or other purposes.

The hand dryer may provide BLUETOOTH Low Energy (“BLE”) Broadcast. APPLEhas branded this functionality iBeacon. It is the broadcasting of acertain Universally Unique Identifier (“UUID”) over BLE and utilizing anative application on iOS, ANDROID, or WINDOWS phone to recognize thatbroadcasted UUID and recognize the location of the user. Thisinformation can be data mined or used for marketing purposes inreal-time or otherwise.

The hand dryer may use the proximity sensor 142 to make advertisingdisplayed on the screen react directly to user's proximity or movement.Even if a user is just watching the screen without drying hands, thehand dryer secondary and primary processors may monitor, analyze, recordand react to the presence of the user as sensed by the proximity sensor142. The audio sensor 144 may monitor, analyze, record and react to theuse of the dryer component 45 or other audio signals and dynamicallyaugment the displayed content based on the use of the hand dryer orother audio that is processed.

The LED 146 may be used to indicate on/off status of the dryer 10 or toindicate activity of the wireless network or the processors by blinking.The LED may also be configured to pulse or blink to interact with thedisplayed information on the screen.

The hand dryer may display social media content on-screen in real-timeby scraping for hashtags. For example, someone if posts a photo toINSTAGRAM with hashtag #unitedcenter, it may be displayed on the handdryers within the venue, i.e., on hand dryers at Chicago's UnitedCenter.

In a further enhancement, multiple sensors and interactive features canbe incorporated into the hand dryer. The sensors and led(s) areinterfaced with a microcontroller 127, via different types ofinput/output pins depending on the specifications of the individualsensor. The microcontroller 127 runs a simple software application thatmonitors the sensors at a regular interval (1 second) and transmitssensor data over serial connection (via usb) to the NUC processor 126.Software running on the processor 126 (such as a NUC) updates a localNoSQL database with data as it flows in and then sends summaries of itto a REST API every 10 minutes from each unit. This data can then bedisplayed within the CMS system on the dashboard to show bathroomactivity, optimize ads etc. The data can also be used directly on theunit for making interactive ads based on the type of traffic, gesturesbeing performed in front of the unit, etc.

As shown in FIG. 7, the sensors include:

1. Barometric Pressure Sensor/Air Density Sensor 220

The sensor measures atmospheric pressure. The measured pressure tendencycan forecast short-term changes in the weather. Numerous measurements ofair pressure can also be used within surface weather analysis to helpfind surface troughs, high-pressure systems and frontal boundaries.

The barometer sensor can also be used to measure the air density todetermine an accurate count of people in a room, or any other tasks thatrequire an accurate pressure reading. In addition to monitor changes inthe weather, measured pair pressure can be used to estimate how manytimes the toilet is used in a day, in that flushing a toilet changes theroom air pressure. The sensor data is recorded as the density of theroom which has the capability to detect how many people were in the roomat any point.

An occupancy software feature that uses the detected occupancy of aspace by people, turns the lights on or off automatically. The sensingof occupancy can be by the air density sensor. Occupancy sensors andsoftware can be used to save energy, provide automatic control, andcomply with building codes.

2. Air Quality Sensor 228 a/228 b

Two air quality sensors 228 a, 228 b can be provided. The sensor 228 adetects odors and the sensor 228 b detects temperature and humidity. Thesignals from the two sensors are calculated and analyzed to produce anair quality signal. These sensors are designed for comprehensivemonitoring of indoor and out-door air conditions. The sensors areresponsive to a wide scope of harmful gases, such as carbon monoxide,alcohol, acetone, paint thinner, and formaldehyde. Even if the sensorsdo not output specific data to describe target gases concentrationsquantitatively, the sensors are still able to be used in applicationsthat require only qualitative results. The results of sensor data can beused to control automatic refresher sprayers and auto air cyclingsystems.

The air quality sensors can measures gases and foul smells in the air.This provides a capability to inform facility managers that the bathroomneeds to be cleaned. The data that is gathered from the sensors couldalso be used to monitor health and environmental issues in publicspaces. The sensors can trigger an air freshener dispensing to enhancethe room fragrance when the environment changes due to foul smells.

3. Proximity Sensor 142

The proximity sensor 142 detects and produces data on the number ofpeople walking by and/or standing in front of the dryer. It can alsotrigger a light to indicate where to place your hands. The light can betuned into advertising purposes as well such as by flashing to attractpeople to approach the hand dryer or display screen.

4. High Frequency Sensor 230

High-frequency sensors are very rugged seismometers, often termedgeophones that cover higher frequency bands. High-frequency geophonesare passive velocity transducers (coil/magnet geophones). These sensorsare most often used in active-source experiments, but can be used torecord a variety of local and regional weak-motion signals and noise inthe bandwidth.

This sensor output is recorded as high-frequency noise and provides thecapability to detect when and how long the dryer has been activated.

This sensor can be used to measure the RPMs coming off the hand dryermotor. Any change in these frequencies indicate the life expectancy ofthe hand dryer. This is an early warning system for pre-detected failureof the hand dryer motor.

The data from the sensor can also be used to indicate the hand dryerusage minute by minute. This data along with proximity sensing canaccurately quantify the ROI on the advertising being displayed.

5. Near Field Communication (NFC)/RFID Sensor/Transmitter 238

The system has built-in programming options that make the devicesuitable for a wide range of applications for proximity and vicinityidentification systems.

Information can be passed along from the Hand Dryer to Smartphones bytapping the two devices together, which runs sharing data such ascontact info or photographs into a simple task. Advertising campaignscan pass information along to the consumers such as coupons, rewards,tickets, etc.

Radio-frequency Identification (RFID) is the wireless use ofelectromagnetic fields to transfer data, for the purposes ofautomatically identifying and tracking tags attached to objects. Thetags contain electronically stored information. Some tags are powered byelectromagnetic induction from magnetic fields produced near the reader.Some tags collect energy from the interrogating radio waves and act as apassive transponder. Other tags have a local power source such as abattery and may operate at hundreds of meters from the reader. Unlike abarcode, the tag does not necessarily need to be within line of sight ofthe reader and may be embedded in the tracked object. RFID is one methodfor Automatic Identification and Data Capture.

6. Bluetooth (BLE)/IBeacon Transmitter/Receiver “Sensor”

This “sensor” is really a receiver/transmitter and is used to transmitdata signals to BLE Devices. The data signals can be such things ascoupons, text messages, or alarm warning systems such as Amber Alert andhuman behavioral data.

Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC).

This could be used automatically identifying objects, collecting dataabout them, and enter that data directly into computer systems (i.e.without human involvement). Either or both of the sensors 238 or 250could be used for AIDC.

This can be used to identify consumers that have used the system in thepast and engage with them directly again. This method can be used tosend data via Mobile Applications such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,SnapChat, Google, Yahoo, etc.

This is possible by offering a Software Development Kit (SDK) tointeract with other technologies through the Hand Dryer

By allowing other companies like Google, Facebook, etc. access to thiscapability a wide range of advertising capabilities and real-time ROI adtracking is made available.

7. Distances and Gesture Sensor 244

This is a sensor (such as a JESTER sensor) that is capable ofdetermining simple gestures, such as hand configurations. The sensorrecognizes the distance of an object away from the sensor. This sensorcan be used to determine how long someone is looking at an advertisementdisplayed on the screen; it could also be used for interactiveadvertising. Gesture control gives the ability to interact with contenton the screen by waving your hand, or making other gestures.

The gesture sensor and software can be available from Leap Motion, Inc.(www.leapmotion.com) of San Francisco, Calif., US.

8. Eye Tracking Sensor 260

This sensor sees what advertisements the user is looking at and theprocessor 126 can monitor, record, sum, average or otherwise calculatethe time a user looks at the screen or at a particular advertisement.The eye tracking sensor can also cause interactive control of the screenin that the display can be changed based on eye tracking signals fromthe sensor, for example an advertisement can be made bigger on thescreen when the observer gazes at the advertisement for more than 2seconds.

Eye tracking is the process of using eye tracking sensors to locatefeatures of the eye and estimate where someone is looking, i.e., thepoint of gaze. The technology relies on infrared illumination and usesadvanced mathematical models to determine the point of gaze. Theparticular sensor can be that made available by THE EYE TRIBEhttps://theeyetribe.com, at The Eye Tribe Aps, Amagerfaelledvej 56, Box34, 2300 Copenhagen S, tel. no. 45 36 980 580.

9. Power Sensor

A power meter or sensor will consist of a measuring head, which containsthe actual power-sensing element, connected via a cable to the meterproper, which displays the power reading. The head may be referred to asa power sensor or mount. Different power sensors can be used fordifferent frequencies or power levels. Historically the means ofoperation in most power sensor and meter combinations was that thesensor would convert the microwave power into an analogue voltage whichwould be read by the meter and converted into a power reading. Severalmodern power sensor heads contain electronics to create a digital outputand can be plugged via USB into a PC, which acts as the power meter.

This sensor is used to analyze power to identify a failing component inthe hand dryer, before failure.

FIG. 7 illustrates that a network card, such as the input/output 144 ofthe processor 126 communicates sorted data from the sensors to anexternal network 290. This data is accumulated, sorted, averaged,summed, aggregated, calculated or otherwise processed in selectabledatabases 300 corresponding to the sensors. The data bases 300 can bequeried by the user with software to display data 310 for analysis. Thenetwork 290 can be part of an external storage and processing networkreferred to as “cloud storage” and/or “cloud computing” 296 that isaccessed remotely.

Other Features

A solid magnetic driver attached to the hand dryer cabinets unit thatwill vibrate frequencies to turn the cabinet into an audio transmitter.A blue light can be mounted to a bottom of the hand dryer. The light canbe used for public security warnings.

FIG. 8 illustrates a display screen for a graphical user interface 390referred to as the “Dashboard” 400. The graphical user interface 390 canbe connected to a host computer that is remote from the hand dryer andcan be accessed by a user or a subscriber to inform the user orsubscriber of real time data, summed data or accumulated data regardingoperation of the hand dryer and associated display screen. For examplethe user can be informed of the number of views or impressions 410 bythe public of advertising on the display screen of the hand dryer. Theuser can be informed of the human traffic 420 though the restroom havingthe hand dryer. The user can be informed of the number of dryer runs orcycles 430. The user can be informed of the air quality within therestroom 440. The user can be alerted to maintenance requirements in therestroom or of the hand dryer 450.

FIG. 9 illustrates an alternate embodiment face 500 of the cabinet shownin FIG. 1. A sensor bar 502 includes the USB hub 38/39, an 8-pinconnector 508, the micro-computer 127, the WiFi transmitter 180 a, theWiFi receiver 180 b, an optical sensor, such as the eye sensor 260, thegesture sensor 244, the proximity sensor 142, the high frequency sensor230, the Bluetooth sensor 250, an RGB light 540, a first air qualitysensor 228 a, a second air quality sensor 228 b, and the air densitysensor 220. The bar 502 can have a protective covering that iscompatible with the type of sensor covered, or no cover at all.

The RGB light 540 can be controlled to produce a variety of colors,depending on the aesthetic desire of the owner, or for signal purposes.The colors can be used to attract a user over to the hand dryer, byflashing or other attention getting method.

FIG. 10 shows a further alternate arrangement front face 600incorporating the same sensors of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 shows an alternative display screen for a graphical userinterface 690 to that shown in FIG. 8, referred to as the “Dashboard”700. This dashboard is for a hand dryers located at O'Hare airport inChicago. The graphical user interface 690 can be connected to a hostcomputer that is remote from the hand dryer and can be accessed by auser or a subscriber to inform the user or subscriber of real time data,summed data or accumulated data regarding operation of the hand dryerand associated display screen. The dashboard includes dropdown boxes forselecting city 704, airport 706, particular airport terminal or allterminals 708, real time or other past time periods 710. The screenshows the number of advertisement views for each gender restroom 712,the air quality measuring NO2 and CO 716, the number of interactionswith observers 720, the calculated savings to the facility by using thehand dryer instead of paper products 722, the number of real time viewsper terminal 726, the number of real time visits per terminal 728, andthe real time visits by gender 730. The savings is calculated by usingthe hf sensor 230 to determine hand dryer operations. A central portion734 of the screen includes useful information to the observer, such asflight information and weather information. All of the informationdepicted can be customized to the observer who may access the dashboardremotely by password. If the observer is interested in his ownadvertising the dashboard would display advertising results for thatobserver only.

From the foregoing, it will be observed that numerous variations andmodifications may be effected without departing from the spirit andscope of the invention. It is to be understood that no limitation withrespect to the specific apparatus illustrated herein is intended orshould be inferred.

1. A hand dryer, comprising: a housing; a fan located within saidhousing; a heater located within said housing, said fan drawing air pastsaid heater to heat said air and to dispense said air from within saidhousing externally of said housing to dry a user's hands; a displayscreen mounted to said housing and viewable by a user while drying handsof the user; an on board computer system located within said housing andin signal-communication with said display screen; at least one sensorfor determining a condition external to the housing, wherein said sensorcommunicates with said computer system; a high-speed link insignal-communication with said computer system and an external datasource; wherein said data source communicates with said computer systemchange the image displayed on said display screen.
 2. The hand dryeraccording to claim 1, wherein said sensor comprises a proximity sensorthat senses the presence of a user in front of the screen.
 3. The handdryer according to claim 1, wherein said sensor comprises an airpressure sensor.
 4. The hand dryer according to claim 1, wherein saidsensor comprises an audio sensor.
 5. The hand dryer according to claim1, wherein said sensor comprises an air quality sensor.
 6. The handdryer according to claim 1, wherein said sensor comprises an RFIDsensor.
 7. The hand dryer according to claim 1, wherein said sensorcomprises a gesture sensor.
 8. The hand dryer according to claim 1,wherein said sensor comprises a plurality of sensors including aproximity sensor that senses the presence of a user in front of thescreen; an air pressure sensor; an audio sensor; an air quality sensor;an RFID sensor; a gesture sensor; and an eye tracking sensor.
 9. Thehand dryer according to claim 1, wherein said high-speed link comprisesa wireless receiver.
 10. The hand dryer according to claim 1, whereinsaid high-speed link comprises a subscriber line.
 11. The hand dryeraccording to claim 1, wherein said on board computer comprises a USBdrive.
 12. The hand dryer according to claim 1, wherein the sensorcomprise a high frequency audio sensor to detect dryer usage.
 13. Thehand dryer according to claim 1, wherein the computer system comprises aprimary processor and a secondary processor, wherein the secondaryprocessor is directly linked to said sensor and directly linked to theprimary processor, wherein the primary processor is insignal-communication with the display screen.
 14. The hand dryeraccording to claim 1, further comprising a WiFi captive portal, whereinthe hand dryer provides a WiFi hotspot for the location that broadcastsinternet for patrons.
 15. A communications system comprising: a centraldata source; a plurality of powered hand dryers, each of said handdryers including a display screen mounted to a front thereof andviewable by a user while drying hands of the user; each of said handdryers including a display processor located therein and insignal-communication with said display screen; at least one sensor fordetermining a condition external to the housing; and each of said handdryers including a high-speed link in signal-communication with saiddisplay processor and said central data source.
 16. The communicationssystem according to claim 15, wherein said high speed links comprisewireless receivers and said central data source comprises a wirelesstransmitter to communicate with each of said wireless receivers.
 17. Thecommunications system according to claim 15, wherein said high speedlinks comprise subscriber lines and said central data sourcecommunicates through said subscriber lines to said hand dryers.
 18. Thecommunications system according to claim 15, wherein said high-speedlinks comprise Ethernet cables, and said central data sourcecommunicates through said Ethernet cables to said hand dryers.
 19. Thecommunications system according to claim 15, comprising a localprocessor and a LAN in signal-communication between the local processorand the plurality of display processors, said local processor insignal-communication with said central data source.
 20. Thecommunications system according to claim 19, wherein said LAN comprisesan Ethernet system.
 21. The communications system according to claim 19,wherein said LAN comprises a wireless system. 22-49. (canceled)
 50. Thehand dryer according to claim 1, wherein the sensor comprises an eyetracking sensor.
 51. The hand dryer according to claim 1, wherein thedata source changes the image on said screen in response to said sensor.52. The hand dryer according to claim 1, wherein the data sourceprovides for a remote display of data generated by said sensor.
 53. Thehand dryer according to claim 1, further comprising a device foradjusting an external condition, including one selected from: afragrance dispensing device to dispense fragrance in response to eitheran image displayed on the screen or in response to an odor sensor, or alight actuating device that turns off or dims lights in response to asensor determining occupancy.